How captain Sam went from cub to Lion king (... and look who was in his class)

Sam Warburton and Gareth Bale were sports stars at the same school in Cardiff — and their old teacher has been hailed as the best sports master in the land.

PE teacher Gwyn Morris, 44, said the Lions captain and the newly crowned PFA Player of the Year played rugby and football together while they were in the same GCSE class at Whitchurch High School.

Smiling assassin: Sam Warburton has set his Lions the target of winning every match on their tour of Australia
next month

Brothers in arms: Sam with his older twin Ben (right) who is now a physiotherapist with the Newport Gwent Dragons

Glove story: pink Marigolds as Sam helps with the dishes at hom

He bangs the drums: Warburton relaxes at home in Cardiff

Proud as punch: first Wales cap for the back-row forward who will now lead the Lions Down Under

Mr Morris said: 'It was a particularly strong year. The both wanted to be the best they could.

'It's amazing that two boys from one school in Cardiff are right at the peak of their sports - that must be unique.

'It's very special for both young men to be recognised - Gareth by his fellow professional players, which is the biggest accolade and Sam as Lions captain, which is a dream come true for him and his family.'

Model pupils: Warburton and Gareth Bale played rugby and football together at school